Summer Fun, Family Safety
To savor the joys of this active season, take basic precautions for carefree outings.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun and surf at the beach, sharing marshmallows and stories around a campfire or chasing fireflies at a backyard barbecue, summer is all about getting out with family and friends. Enjoy your outdoor adventures with the help of these safety tips:
At The Beach: Reapply sunscreen every two hours—even when it’s cloudy—and after swimming or sweating. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Look for the
Boating: Never drive a boat while under the influence. According to the American Red Cross, half of all drownings involve boats and alcohol.
Hiking: Carry water and drink frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Skip alcohol and caffeine, which contribute to dehydration.
Swimming: Unless a swimming area is clearly marked for diving and there are no obstructions, enter the water feet first. Diving into shallow water can be fatal or cause a debilitating spinal cord injury.
Picnicking: After eating, promptly store perishable leftovers in an ice-filled cooler in the shade. When it’s 90 degrees or hotter, don’t leave food out for more than one hour—even less time if it’s in direct sunlight.
Biking: Always wear a helmet, no matter how far you ride. In 2005, riders under age 15 made up 18 percent of the nation’s 784 bicycle fatalities, compared to 39 percent from the 35-to-54 age group, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety administration.
Camping: Keep paper and other clutter, dry leaves and pine needles away from your cooking area. Never use a camp stove or grill in a tent or other enclosure.
Playing outdoors: Help keep ticks and mosquitoes away with an insect repellent containing DEET. According to the
Vacation Cost Cutters
Family vacations don’t have to be expensive. Here are five ways to save cash on a cool vacation.
1. Save on theme park vacations - by skipping pricey concessions. Bring refillable water bottles and your own snacks.
2. Camp out - under the stars in a tent or cabin. Visit www.gocampingamerica.com to find the perfect site for your family nationwide.
3. Check out free and low cost – attractions before you travel. Go to www.2chambers.com for state vacation directories.
4. Visit the Library - for audio books and DVD’s to enjoy on the road. Some restaurant and gas station chains rent them for a small fee.
5. Plan a vacation in your own state – map out an itinerary to visit several top state attractions that you haven’t seen yet.
These tips brought to you by Liberty Mutual Group and the AICPA Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program. The AICPA Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program offers competitive rates and superior service to AICPA members. For more information, or to request a quote, call toll-free 1-866-92-AICPA (1-866-922-4272).
Reprinted with permission from
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